# Prague in March – Road Trip from Warsaw to Czech Capital

- Link: https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/europe/czech-republic-spring-welcome-march-car-trip-to-prague/
- Published: 2024-12-13T17:36:26+01:00
- Author: Filip Chochół

Ten wpis jest również dostępny w języku:  [⌊Switch to Polski⌉Polski](https://warsawtravelers.pl/europa/czechy-powitanie-wiosny-marcowy-wyjazd-autem-do-pragi/)

 Table of contents

## Hello! 👋

In March 2023, we decided to take a quick weekend getaway to Prague. By chance, 
we had a little extra budget—a refund for a less-than-perfect hotel room in Abu 
Dhabi. We managed to recover it through the Agoda platform. That got us thinking,“
Why not spend this money on something more enjoyable?” We found a place to stay 
that fit the budget perfectly, quickly planned the trip, packed our bags, and hit
the road from Warsaw to explore the Czech capital.

There wasn’t much preparation or a complicated plan – the spontaneity had its charm.
Prague always seemed like a perfect destination for a short trip, so without hesitation,
we decided to see what it had to offer. And as is often the case with such ideas–
it turned out pretty great!

 [ ⌊Illustrated Czech soldiers in Prague, one with a moustache and rifle, holding a toast in a mural scene⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-001.jpg)

 [ ⌊Czech Republic, Prague Article photo—historic buildings lining a sunny street with pedestrians⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## How did we get to the Czech city of Prague?

During our drive from Warsaw to Prague, we noticed that the main roads in the Czech
Republic are well-maintained, making for a comfortable journey. In smaller towns
and rural areas, however, you might come across roads with rougher surfaces, much
like in Poland. In Prague itself, the road conditions are similar to those in Polish
cities. Many streets are in good shape, although some sections could use repairs.

After crossing the border, we had to purchase a vignette for driving on Czech highways.
Here’s a quick tip: always buy your vignette from the official website, [eDalnice.cz](https://edalnice.cz/).
We heard stories of people overpaying by purchasing through intermediaries or even
ending up with fake vignettes – which could result in a fine. [Janek Rubeš](https://pl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Janek_Rube%C5%A1)
from the Honest Guide channel explains this issue really well, highlighting several
scams that are unfortunately quite common in the Czech Republic.

The road to Prague was very well signposted, and although Czech highways may not
be perfect, they provided a comfortable journey. Along the way, we passed several
picturesque landscapes that truly stood out against the sometimes monotonous views
typical of highways.

## Documents and border crossing

Traveling by car from Warsaw to Prague in March 2023 required some essential documents
and preparations. Since our car was leased, we brought an authorization letter from
the leasing company confirming our right to use the vehicle. This document was translated
into several languages, primarily English.

When crossing the Polish-Czech border, as citizens of the European Union, we were
able to use our ID cards, leaving our passports at home. However, it’s important
to remember that you should always carry a valid ID card or passport with you.

As for the vehicle documents, we dutifully took:

 * Registration certificate with up-to-date technical inspection,
 * Driver’s license,
 * Confirmation of the validity of liability insurance.

In addition, the Czech Republic is in force:

 * Driving with lights on 24 hours a day.
 * Absolute ban on drunk driving – the legal limit is 0.0 promille.
 * The obligation to use winter tires from November 1 to March 31 if there is snow,
   ice or frost on the road, or if weather conditions are likely to indicate their
   occurrence during travel.

 [ ⌊Prague riverfront in the Czech Republic with tour boats and the Charles Bridge in view under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-018-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Traffic conditions

During our journey from Warsaw to Prague, we noticed that the main roads in the 
Czech Republic are well-maintained, making the drive comfortable. However, in smaller
towns and rural areas, you might encounter roads with rougher surfaces, similar 
to those in Poland. In Prague, the road conditions are comparable to Polish cities.
While many streets are in good shape, some sections definitely need repair.

It’s also important to remember the mandatory vehicle equipment required when traveling
in the Czech Republic. Drivers must carry a warning triangle, spare bulbs, a first
aid kit, and a reflective vest in the car.

Parking in Prague can be a challenge, especially in the central districts with different
parking zones:

 * **🔵 Blue Zone:** Reserved for residents with the appropriate permit. Parking
   without a permit can result in a fine or having your vehicle towed.
 * **🟣 Purple Zone (Mixed):** Available for both residents and visitors. Parking
   is paid, with fees varying depending on the location and duration of the stay.
 * **🟠 Orange Zone: ** Primarily designated for short-term parking by visitors.
   Fees are generally higher than in the Purple Zone.

To avoid fines, it’s advisable to use official parking payment apps, such as the
[Virtual Parking Meter in Prague](https://www.parkujvklidu.cz/en/), which makes 
it easy to pay for your parking conveniently.

### Public transportation

During our stay in Prague, we chose to leave the car at the hotel and rely on public
transport. This turned out to be both the most convenient and affordable way to 
explore the city. Prague’s public transportation network is extensive, featuring
the metro, trams, and buses. It makes reaching most of the city’s main attractions
simple and efficient.

**The metro** has three lines: A (green), B (yellow), and C (red). These lines intersect
at key points across the city, allowing for easy transfers. Trains operate from 
early morning until midnight, with frequent departures during peak hours.

**Trams** are another convenient way to get around Prague. Tram lines reach areas
not served by the metro, and some routes offer scenic views of the city. Trams operate
both during the day and at night, making them a great option for night owls.

 [ ⌊Czech Republic, Prague Article photo: train departure display showing route 22 at Prague station⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Commuters walk inside Prague metro station with tracks and platform signs visible⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊People waiting on a platform as a train departs at Prague railway station, Czech Republic⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-005-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊People riding escalators inside Prague metro station, Czech Republic, with promotional posters along the steps⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-006-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Karlsovo Namesti station sign on a Prague metro platform with yellow-trimmed tracks⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-007-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

### Tickets

Tickets for public transport in Prague are integrated, meaning the same ticket is
valid across all modes of transportation. They can be purchased from ticket machines
at metro stations, kiosks, or via the PID Lítačka mobile app. Remember to validate
your ticket before starting your journey to avoid potential fines during ticket 
inspections.

We noticed that the trams in Prague are equipped with modern ticket validators that
allow you to purchase tickets using contactless payment cards. This system was introduced
in April 2019, with nearly a thousand of these devices installed across the entire
tram network.

In case of issues with the ticket validator, such as incorrect date printing, it
is recommended to report this immediately to the inspector during a ticket check.
If the ticket was purchased and validated correctly but the error is due to a device
malfunction, there is an option to appeal against any potential fine.

## Accommodation

During our stay in Prague, we stayed at **Iris Hotel Eden**, a four-star property
located in the Prague 10 district. The hotel is part of the Eden Arena sports complex,
home to the Slavia Prague football club. It offers modern, air-conditioned rooms
equipped with satellite TV and internet access.

On our first night, we encountered an issue with the air conditioning in our room.
Although some of the staff spoke Polish, we had to report the problem in English.
The hotel responded quickly, resolving the issue, and as an apology, they offered
us a bottle of wine, which was a very kind gesture.

We didn’t try the breakfasts offered by the hotel, so we can’t comment on them. 
Overall, our experience at Iris Hotel Eden was positive, and the professionalism
and friendliness of the staff left a good impression.

 [ ⌊Prague Article photo: handwritten note in a room with a bottle, glasses, and an ice bucket⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-013-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## SIM card

During our stay in the Czech Republic, we didn’t need a local SIM card – our Polish
numbers worked without additional roaming charges, which is one of the greatest 
benefits of EU regulations. This allowed us to use the internet, make calls, and
send messages freely without worrying about extra costs.

Before traveling, it’s a good idea to check the terms of your mobile operator’s 
contract. While EU roaming is free of additional charges, data usage limits may 
apply. Depending on your plan, the roaming data limit might be lower than what you
have at home, and exceeding it could lead to extra costs. Therefore, it’s wise to
confirm how much data you can use to avoid any surprises.

If you’re planning a longer stay or need more internet data, you might consider 
purchasing a local SIM card from a Czech operator such as T-Mobile, O2, or Vodafone.
However, for short trips, this is usually not necessary.

## Food

During our visit to Prague, we tried **trdelník**, a sweet pastry popular among 
tourists. Although often considered a traditional Czech treat, trdelník actually
originates from the Transylvania region in modern-day Romania and is more closely
associated with Hungarian and Slovak cuisine. It became popular in the Czech Republic
relatively recently, primarily in tourist areas.

 [ ⌊Prague Article photo of a Czech street food stand with “BAGETERIE BOULéVARD” signage and menu boards⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-008-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Czech Republic, Prague Article photo breakfast food tray with drinks, sandwiches, and pastries.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-009-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

Czech cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes, often based on meat,
potatoes, and cabbage. Popular dishes include **beef goulash with dumplings**, **
fried cheese**, and a variety of soups, such as **bramboračka** (potato soup) and**
česnečka** (garlic soup).

We also visited a local cafeteria-style eatery that had a retro vibe, reminiscent
of a bygone era. Such places offer an authentic experience of Czech culinary culture
at very affordable prices.

Of course, we couldn’t skip tasting Czech beer, for which the country is famous.
Czechs are known for their love of beer, and local breweries offer a wide variety
of flavors that pair perfectly with traditional dishes.

 [ ⌊Prague article photo of two strawberry cupcakes with whipped cream, held in hands indoors in Czech Republic.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-010.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Strongbow Gold Apple cider can held in Prague street with historic buildings in the background⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-011-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Czech Republic, Prague Article photo of a plate with schnitzel and boiled potatoes on a wooden table⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-012-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Exchange office or ATM?

During your travels, many of you might wonder: should you exchange currency at a
bureau de change or use ATMs? From our experience, withdrawing cash from ATMs with
a currency card is usually more cost-effective and convenient.

In Prague, we noticed numerous ATMs, including those from the Euronet network. However,
it’s important to be cautious, as some of these may charge high fees for cash withdrawals.
We recommend using ATMs operated by local banks, such as Česká spořitelna, Komerční
banka, or ČSOB, which often provide more favorable terms.

The key to saving money is having a currency card or a multi-currency card, which
allows you to withdraw cash in the local currency without additional currency conversion
fees. Before your trip, it’s a good idea to check the terms your bank offers for
international withdrawals to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

It’s also important to choose the option to be charged in the local currency (Czech
koruna) when withdrawing cash from an ATM, rather than accepting the ATM’s suggested
dynamic currency conversion (DCC). This will help you avoid unfavorable exchange
rates and additional fees.

## Climate and weather conditions

Prague, like the rest of the Czech Republic, lies in a temperate climate zone with
four distinct seasons. The weather in the capital can be quite variable, so it’s
a good idea to be prepared for changing conditions, regardless of the time of year.

In March, when we visited the city, temperatures averaged around 6°C. These were
days when warmer clothing was necessary, but there were also sunny moments that 
encouraged longer walks. Although early spring brings gradual warming, some days
still felt like late winter. Rainfall can be moderate, so having an umbrella in 
your backpack might come in handy.

In summer, Prague gets warmer, with temperatures hovering around 25°C. It’s the 
perfect time to explore the city outdoors – whether visiting Hradčany, strolling
across Charles Bridge, or relaxing by the Vltava River. However, occasional heatwaves,
especially in July and August, can occur, so it’s good to stay prepared for warmer
days.

Autumn in Prague is quite beautiful, with leaves changing colors and pleasant temperatures
ranging between 10–15°C. Winter, on the other hand, though not extremely cold, can
bring chills around 0°C. Snowfall, while rare, adds a charming touch to the city’s
atmosphere.

## Safety

Prague is generally considered a safe city, but like in any popular tourist destination,
it’s important to be aware of certain risks and scams that might target unsuspecting
visitors. Here are some of the most common situations to watch out for:

 * **Currency Exchange:** Some exchange offices, especially those near major tourist
   attractions, offer unfavorable exchange rates or charge hidden fees. It’s also
   common for them to advertise attractive rates that actually apply only to large
   amounts of currency.
 * **ATMs: ** Euronet machines are widely available in Prague, but they often offer
   unfavorable exchange rates and may charge high fees for cash withdrawals.
 * **Transport: ** Some unscrupulous taxi drivers may overcharge for rides, especially
   targeting tourists (sounds familiar from Poland, doesn’t it?).
 * **Restaurants:** Some establishments may add extra charges for bread or sauces
   placed on the table, even if you didn’t order them.
 * **Pickpocketing:** In crowded areas, such as public transportation or popular
   tourist attractions, pickpockets may be active.
 * **Petitions:** Individuals posing as volunteers may ask you to sign a petition
   and then demand a donation.

## Places we visited

During our weekend getaway to Prague, we managed to see quite a lot! If you’d like
to know which places we enjoyed the most and where you should definitely visit –
[check out our separate article](https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/europe/czech-republic-weekend-in-prague-what-did-we-see/).
✨

 [ ⌊Couple posing in a lush Prague garden by a tree trunk and mural wall in Czech Republic⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-017-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Prague station interior with a large domed ceiling, hanging lights, and travelers sitting near a baroque hall⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-016-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Prague, Czech Republic city street with a modern glass building and historic facade nearby⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-015-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Prague in the Czech Republic: the towering steel structure of Letná lookout above a park walkway and trees⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/czech-republic-014-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Summary

To sum up our weekend trip to Prague – it’s definitely a destination worth visiting.
Its proximity to Poland makes it an ideal spot for a short getaway, especially since
the costs are much more affordable compared to many other European capitals. You
can enjoy delicious and inexpensive meals here, and the city’s atmosphere, particularly
in less crowded areas, is truly charming. 🌟

However, it’s worth noting that Prague is one of the most popular tourist destinations
in Europe, which means you might encounter typical overtourism in certain areas –
crowds are particularly noticeable around Charles Bridge and Hradčany.

Jadzia gives Prague her recommendation, though she notes that she prefers other 
European capitals. 😉 Still, it’s a great option for a quick, casual getaway, where
you can experience the unique charm of the Czech capital and create unforgettable
memories. ✨